Run Forrest, Run. part 2

Why should you run versus other forms of cardio?

Running is great because it does not require any equipment. As long as you have running shoes and a safe location, you can run. Indoors or outdoors, running is a simple form of cardio that shows real progress.

Unlike an elliptical or stationary bike, you do not have to be inside or a member of gym to benefit from cardio. This is especially convenient if you travel and do not have access to a gym. I studied abroad in Spain for 5 weeks, and guess what I did every morning? That’s right, I ran. I saw more and experienced more than I ever thought I could, because I got out of my comfort zone and truly experienced the beautiful geography everyday. I saw amazing sunrises rising over the ocean, explored different cities, found new museums and parks to visit, and passed restaurants I wanted to try. My running partner and I loved our morning runs. Check out some of the places I would run:

The Barcelona boardwalk

El Retiro Park in Madrid

Running is also easier for keeping track of progress. Shorter times or longer distances are perfect ways to know that you are constantly amping up your workout and pushing yourself to your best effort. In addition, if a run does become easier, it is because you are beginning to master the task. That’s wonderful news! That means your body is getting used to the effort you are putting on your body and feels more experienced.

Running is also a better choice than exercise classes, because you do not have to deal with crowds or hot, sweaty rooms. If running, you can be by yourself in quiet to collect your thoughts. You won’t have to worry about having enough room during your workout and sweating profusely because of others. And when you run, you can push yourself harder because you don’t have to slow down for others who don’t know what they are doing.

Running is also a great because you don’t need others to do it. Team sports like soccer and football require others to make the sport and the exercise even possible. However, what if you were on a volleyball team and wanted to workout one day? It is hard to do your best workout and training alone. Team sports need other people for it to be efficient. If you run, you don’t need others. You can do it anytime of day, anywhere without needing to rely on others to make it happen.

That is one of the best parts of running. If you do run or compete in a race, the time you get is all you. You were the one who put in the time and effort, no one else made you do that well. It is a true sense of self-accomplishment and very rewarding to know that you did so well all on you own. It’s fun to let others know your best times, and to know that if you eventually beat those times it was because you worked hard to achieve them.

So, lace up those sneakers and start running! Stay tuned for the last part of this series: how to make running enjoyable.